Toyota/Lexus/Scion vehicles with direct TPMS also come equipped with a TPMS reset feature. A button located in the glovebox or under the steering wheel allows techs to initialize the system after installing new wheels/tires, changing tire sizes or performing tire rotations. Initialization can also be used to adjust the warning pressure. On newer models, reset mode can be initiated using the dashboard menu.

Upon entering reset mode, the TPMS system will listen for the registered sensor IDs; if it doesn’t hear them, it will lock up. If the system is locked then new sensor IDs can’t be registered, i.e. OBD-learning won’t be possible.

Therefore it’s advised to register new sensors first. If the button is pushed before OBD-learning is completed, the TPMS system will lock, but it can be unlocked using the ECU Unlock feature on a TPMS tool. If sensors aren’t replaced then it isn’t necessary to perform an OBD relearn, but the system should be reset if something else changes (new wheels, tires are rotated, etc).

To reset the system, park the vehicle and inflate the tires to the nominal pressure, which can be found on the placard label located on the driver’s door or vehicle’s B pillar. If the car/truck has a full-size spare, then check that tire’s pressure too. Turn the ignition on and hold the reset button until the tire warning light blinks slowly 3 times, then release it. Wait several minutes so the system can save each tire’s pressure, then turn the ignition off.

The reset button can also be used to initiate TPMS auto-learning mode on newer models; the owner’s manual will show if the vehicle is compatible with that feature. More information on automatic learning for Toyota vehicles can be found here.